Guide for Preparing a Catholic Funeral

At this time of your loss, I would like to offer you my condolences. Please know that each day those who have died are remembered at every Mass, as are those who mourn. I hope the Church’s prayer will be a comfort and consolation for you at this testing time.

Preparing the funeral service of someone who has died can be a difficult thing to face. This leaflet has been prepared to make the preparations easier. May the time you spend reflecting on the Word of God strengthen your trust and faith in God’s love and mercy.

Please do make an appointment with your parish priest to discuss the funeral arrangements. He will have a lot of experience of preparing and celebrating the Funeral Liturgy of the Church. He will welcome your suggestions and consider how he can then best prepare the Liturgy in line with the Church’s tradition, and respectful of your particular circumstances.

I hope you find what follows helpful at this difficult time.

Preparing a Catholic Funeral

Funeral Readings & Psalms